Germany's leading industrial trade fair, the Hannover Messe, opened Monday with the focus on sustainable development of carbon-neutral production and hydrogen fuel cells as well as artificial intelligence (AI) technology.
The exhibition, themed on "energizing a sustainable industry," runs until Friday and attracted almost 4,000 exhibitors from around 60 countries and regions. Among them, Chinese exhibitors accounted for 30 percent of participants, second only to the host Germany, according to the organizer.
This year's trade fair also features digitalization, energy transformation, and artificial intelligence and machine learning. More than 500 exhibitors from the hydrogen and fuel cell industry will also present their innovative energy solutions.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz opened the fair together with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Scholz emphasized the need for less bureaucracy in Brussels which according to industry leaders slows down the German economy.
The Hermes award, a major industry prize at the fair, went to the new 2D Grasping Kit, which is a camera with AI software that cuts learning times for industrial robots. Other products on display include AI assistants that allow industrial robots to be controlled by voice and systems that independently schedule their own maintenance.
The China International Investment Promotion Agency (Germany) organized a special event at the fair to foster investment cooperation between China, Germany and beyond.
"So, we're trying to bring German companies and Chinese companies together to work in these fields, to cooperate in these fields. So, it could be in joint ventures, it could be as fully owned foreign investments. Everything is possible," said Andrea Höcker, a public relations specialist at the China International Investment Promotion Agency (Germany).
Hannover trade fair focuses on industrial sustainability
Leading traditional automakers and China's emerging new energy vehicle (NEV) manufacturers are developing products that are more suitable for the Chinese consumer market, with companies vying to debut their latest offerings at the ongoing auto show in Beijing.
Running from April 25 to May 4, this year's Auto China, also known as the Beijing Auto Show, serves as a testament to China's leading position in the NEV market.
With a strong focus on NEVs, Chinese carmakers are driving competition and pushing the boundaries of what electric vehicles can offer.
German auto giant Volkswagen just launched its new ID.UX all-electric vehicle models at the auto show.
"It is truly a reflection of our commitment to delivering electrifying new choices and exceptional digital experiences for our customers in China. In today's ICV (intelligent connected vehicles) era, consumers seek immersive, emotional experiences. Every ID.UX model, as you can see behind me, features a golden 'VW' logo, symbolizing our dedication to innovation, quality and uniqueness. We are delivering on our 'in China, for China' promise to customers at 'China speed'," said Erwin Gabardi, Volkswagen (AnHui) Automotive Company Limited.
Domestic NEV makers Xpeng and NIO unveiled new models at the auto show, which cater to a more budget-conscious market segment.
"Onvo, our new subsidiary, has a primary focus on the family market. We want to create the finest SUV for families. We are confident in the performance of our first model, the L60. With our intelligent technology and extensive charging and battery swapping network, we believe it will surpass expectations," said Li Bin, founder and CEO of NIO.
According to experts, the introduction of models that target different market segments is seen as a positive factor contributing to healthy competition in the NEV market.
"In an era of new technology development and diverse consumer needs, auto companies are placing significant emphasis on targeting specific segments to cater to the differentiated demands of consumers. This approach proves beneficial for promoting the automobile industry," said Cui Dongshu, secretary general of the China Passenger Car Association.
Major car brands showcase new NEV models at Beijing Auto Show
